Some Conversations Are Too Important to Navigate Without Preparation
Conversations That Matter is a free, 6-hour training created by Human Resources to help University of Arizona employees handle tough conversations with confidence and care. Whether you're giving feedback, working through conflicts, or dealing with difficult situations at work or in your personal life, this program will help you communicate better and build stronger, more trusting relationships.
The Colleague Conflict
Tensions have been building with a coworker, and it's starting to impact your ability to collaborate effectively.
The Student Situation
A difficult interaction with a student or parent requires you to set boundaries while maintaining professionalism.
The Cross-Department Challenge
You need to give feedback to someone in another unit, but you're not sure how to navigate the organizational dynamics.
The Performance Discussion
You and a coworker are facing challenges with shared responsibilities, and you need to address it before deadlines are missed and it affects the broader project.
Winter 2025 Session
When: Dec. 8, 9, & 10; 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. MST
Format: Virtual delivery via Zoom; Registration via EDGE
Time Commitment: 6 total hours
What You'll Learn
Three focused modules that give you immediately applicable frameworks. Practice with U of A colleagues in scenarios you'll actually face.
Mindset Mastery
"Before we speak, we must see clearly"
Before having challenging conversations, you need to understand your own reactions and assumptions.
- Identify your personal triggers and stress responses
- Separate facts from the stories you tell yourself
- Stay open, curious and growth-oriented when emotions are high.
- Clarify your intentions for yourself, the other person and the relationship
Holding the Conversation
"Structure builds safety and clarity"
Learn a proven framework that takes the guesswork out of difficult conversations.
- Use the SBI4 Model (developed at the U of A)—a simple structure for feedback conversations
- Create psychological safety by inviting dialogue, not monologue
- Focus on observable behaviors instead of judgments
- Explain impact without blame
- Practice with real U of A workplace scenarios
Exploring Perspectives
"Listening is the key to transformation"
Move beyond talking to truly understanding—then co-create solutions that work.
- Practice the 3 Levels of Active Listening (Reflect, Clarify, Validate)
- Recognize and manage defensiveness in yourself and others
- Navigate tense moments without escalating conflict
- Co-create solutions that honor multiple perspectives
- Build your complete conversation toolkit
Why Conversations That Matter?
Exploring All Your Options?
Conversations That Matter is one of three communication training pathways at the U of A. Each program serves different needs and learning preferences.
Compare All Communication Training Options
See our detailed comparison guide covering LinkedIn Learning, Conversations That Matter, and Crucial Conversations
Frequently Asked Questions
Any benefits-eligible U of A employee who wants to improve their workplace communication skills. Whether you're a supervisor navigating performance discussions, a team member addressing colleague conflicts, or a front-line staff member managing difficult student interactions—these skills apply to your role.
You'll need to coordinate time away from work with your supervisor, but there's no budget approval required since the program is free. Many supervisors appreciate employees taking initiative in professional development.
Yes. You'll be able to generate a certificate from EDGE Learning once the course is marked complete. You'll be able to download a certificate and have it on your learning record.
You control what you share. Ground rules include confidentiality ("what happens here, stays here"), and you can practice with general scenarios rather than personal situations. The environment is supportive and judgment-free.
Yes! Many teams register together to build shared communication language and practices. However, each person registers individually—this isn't a team-booking program.
If you prefer a department training, email hr-learnandevelop@arizona.edu for a consultation.
To ensure the best learning experience, please register only if you can attend all three sessions. Each session builds on the last, creating a cohesive program experience. We understand that unexpected conflicts may arise; if that happens, don't hesitate to contact the HR team at hr-learnanddevelop@arizona.edu for guidance.
Transform Your Workplace Conversations
Join U of A colleagues in building practical skills for the conversations that matter most. Free, focused, and designed for our university community.